Kent Car Thieves Nabbed After Slick Key Swap Scam
Mercedes Swiped After Fake Buyer Swap
Kent locals, beware! A Dartford woman’s Mercedes A-Class was stolen just hours after a test drive — but police acted fast to catch the crooks. The drama kicked off when the owner listed her Merc online on Saturday, 28 February 2026. Prospective buyers showed up on Monday, 2 March. Amid the viewing, one of the men swapped the real keys for a copy. The owner drove off briefly, none the wiser. By 10.40pm, the car had vanished.
Police Hot on the Heels of Thieves
Officers launched a swift pursuit after spotting the Merc racing across the Dartford Crossing into Essex. Less than an hour after the theft report, two men were in cuffs and the car was back safe and sound.
Pair Charged and Court-Bound
- Abu Siddique, 37, from Bedford
- Mirza Sadiq, 44, from St. Albans
Both face charges of vehicle theft and driving without insurance. They appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 4 March and were granted conditional bail. Their next date at Woolwich Crown Court is set for 30 March.
Kent police warn sellers to stay alert and verify buyers thoroughly to dodge the growing key-swap scam.
